Considering a M1008 Cucv.... Thoughts

[Vbb199]

So I've been thinking... And thinking... And thinking some more.... Even though I'm not a huge fan of the 6.2 diesel.... I think I wanna get another pickup truck, and since I like the m1008, and it comes with a 6.2, I'll just take it as is.

What's everyone's opinion on them? I know what all goodies they have, but who's owned one, and how's it do? I'm casually searching for one, not necessarily wanting to strike a deal today, just thinking on a second vehicle to drive around.

Most of them are low mileage, they can tow a good bit, I'm not looking to go fast, just drive it.

 

[Frankenchevy]

My truck is a cucv. Couldn’t tell you about it in stock form. My 6.2 is long gone. Other than the 24v system stock and j code 6.2, it’s basically a k30 with slightly stiffer than average springs, a few extra frame braces and blackout light switches. There are a few other things, like the rear trailer harness is different than a civilian model, bumpers and it’s a Dana 60 truck without cab marker lights. It also has a “HD 39” th400, which varies slightly from the usual th400. If you plan on highway driving much, you’ll need to address the 4.56 with the 6.2 low max rpm. I think they were built for approx 50-55mph max.

They do seem to have low miles. Mine was under 60k. I’m also not sure if they did an intentionally more robust or thorough paint job, but mine had zero rust.

 

[Vbb199]

It would be cool to find a big block to swap in for sure, and something like a 4L80e behind it..... Might would do some really decent towing.

But regardless, I appreciate the input. I'm looking for something I could do some work to and make a everyday driver out of.

 

[SDJunkMan]

The axles are the biggest selling point (unfortunatly the M1009's dont have the good ones). The wiring is unique to them and if it has been altered it can drive you crazy. They don't come with much insulation/soundproofing, and are very loud inside.

 

[MrMarty51]

6.2 is a good engine. There is a lot of up rated components that can be had for them, nothing much for more power other than a turbo kit.
The SB pickups swaps in a Cummins 5.9 quite easily too. Along with an overdrive transmission and those low gears of the differentials, that`d be a pulling beast, and, fuel mileage would be excellent. Probably 20+ to the gallon. You`ll never see that from a 454.

 

[Vbb199]

The axles are the biggest selling point (unfortunatly the M1009's dont have the good ones). The wiring is unique to them and if it has been altered it can drive you crazy. They don't come with much insulation/soundproofing, and are very loud inside.

That's what I've just learned it's the m1028 I'd want.

 

[SDJunkMan]

That's what I've just learned it's the m1028 I'd want.

The M1008 also has the good axles, just a lighter suspension. The M1009 (what I have), is the Blazer version.

 

[1987 GMC Jimmy]

I think the one thing I’d want above all else if I was going to make a frequent driver of one of those is to set it up with the gauge package and repin/resensor it rather than deal the idiot lights it has. Nothing against them, but that information is very useful to have. It’s also easy to put some sound proofing in it. I would try to make it work without A/C, and I don’t know about you, but it’s very difficult for me. I’d probably have to add it.

 

[SDJunkMan]

I think the one thing I’d want above all else if I was going to make a frequent driver of one of those is to set it up with the gauge package and repin/resensor it rather than deal the idiot lights it has. Nothing against them, but that information is very useful to have. It’s also easy to put some sound proofing in it. I would try to make it work without A/C, and I don’t know about you, but it’s very difficult for me. I’d probably have to add it.

Yeah, the lack of guages sucks, thinking of adding some to mine. Adding A/C would be tuff if you keep the 24 volt system, since there is an alternator on each side. You would also have to relocate the 2nd battery, since they are both on the pass side.

 

[1987 GMC Jimmy]

Yeah, the lack of guages sucks, thinking of adding some to mine. Adding A/C would be tuff if you keep the 24 volt system, since there is an alternator on each side. You would also have to relocate the 2nd battery, since they are both on the pass side.

I didn’t even think of the two alternators. Wow, that’s a tough one. What about fabricating brackets for the lower passenger side where the AIR pump would be on a gasser? Otherwise, I guess you’d have to install a Thermador style cooler if you live in a dry climate, install a window unit which would be the most hillbilly thing you could do to a vehicle, or just deal with it.

 

[SDJunkMan]

just deal with it.

Thats what I do, but my truck is mostly used in the winter, so it's not a problem.

 

[MrMarty51]

It might be possible to find the serpentine belt system from a civilian 6.2 or 6.5 then do the conversion to A/C and a single alternator with that.

 

[SDJunkMan]

It might be possible to find the serpentine belt system from a civilian 6.2 or 6.5 then do the conversion to A/C and a single alternator with that.

Adding A/C is possible, there are a few guys on the Steel Soldiers web site that have done it. The 24 volt system just makes it more complicated. If you don't care about the 24 volt system, it's not hard to change over to 12 volts, the starter is the only thing that requires 24 volts, the lights and even the glow plugs are all 12 volt.

 

[MrMarty51]

Come to think of it, a separate circuit can be run from one battery to power anything that is 12 volts.
If wires are hooked to the positive and a wire to the negative of one battery then the 12 volt items can be powered. Just have to disconnect those items from the 24 volt system.

 

[80BrownK10]

We had one at the fire department as a utility truck for awhile. I loved it and drove it whenever I had the chance . Ours was owned by the USFS and had been loaned to the state then in turn to us. It had zero rust as well. I figured it had 4.10 rears but 4.56 makes more sense. That thing screamed at 65-70mph. Seemed to get decent fuel mileage as well. And seemed pretty peppy but I'm sure most of that was those rear gears! Wasn't as bad of a dog as people seem to make it out to be. And it was loud this n the cab too!